Travel #4 I Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle is a medieval castle that has been expanded over the centuries and is still expanding! (It closes in January 2015 for 3 months for renovations) and turned into a five star luxury hotel near Cong on the Mayo-Galway border, on the shore of Lough Corrib in Ireland. Ashford Castle is set in 350 acres of parkland,  It is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World organisation and was previously owned by the Guinness family.

                                                        The largest lake in Ireland, Lough Corrib

                                                     Secret gardens adorn the grounds of Ashford Castle

 

                                                                                           A rare clear blue sky in Mid-November

Ashford Castle's luxury accommodations are hugely spacious and all individually designed, with elegant period furnishings, sumptuous marble bathrooms and all the comforts of gracious living. Each bedroom has fantastic views either across the gardens, the river or of Lough Corrib.







Dining at Ashford Castle is an amazing experience, with Michelin Star head chef, Stefan Matz overseeing the The George V Room, Cullen's at the Cottage and the Connaught Room.

Afternoon Tea is a work of art and worth the €60 price. It includes the sumptuous desserts below and also scones, served with homemade lemon curd and a selection of jams, finger sandwiches of smoked salmon and chicken salad with a toasted almond crust.




Ashford Castle offers a huge range of activities, from walks within the 350 acre estate, golfing on Ashford's 9-hole course, to fishing for trout and salmon on Lough Corrib and lake cruises. We went on the cruise and it's a fabulous way to see the vast Lough Corrib and also learn some of the Castle's interesting history- Ashford Castle also has one of the most advanced Equestrian Centres in the country and has Ireland's first Falconry School offering the rare opportunity to handle birds of prey.

 

For rainy days, Ashford has a health and beauty centre equipped with whirlpool, steam-room and sauna and a full range of beauty treatments using exclusive Yonka products. The only downside is there is no swimming pool, which is unusual for a 5 star hotel.

Spectacular in every way.



Prices start from €88pppn B&B Midweek LINK!
Weekend rates €155pppn


-Visit LINK! for details -